death certificate

noun

: an official document that gives information about a person's death (such as when and how the death happened)

Examples of death certificate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For example, a heart attack, which can be triggered by extreme heat exposure, especially in people who are older or have underlying health issues, may be listed on a death certificate simply as a heart attack. — ABC News, 17 July 2026

Officials added Graham's death certificate will remain pending until toxicology and microscopic testing are complete. — Brittany Miller , Adam Sabes, FOXNews.com, 12 July 2026

According to his death certificate, coronary artery disease and Parkinson’s disease were also contributing causes. — Jessica Schladebeck, New York Daily News, 9 July 2026

The Dallas Medical Examiners Office did not immediately respond to a request asking for clarification on the date on the death certificate. — Fousia Abdullahi, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 July 2026

Legal Definition

death certificate

noun

: a document setting forth information (as age, occupation, and place of birth) relating to a dead person and including a doctor's certification of the cause of death

Note: Death certificates are issued by a particular public official, as a city or town clerk. A death certificate is required to document a person's death for certain purposes, as to file an estate tax return or to probate an estate.